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Zucchini Pizza Bites

Jessica T. Brown
A fast and healthy snack featuring zucchini slices topped with melted cheese, salami, and a touch of tomato.
Low-carb, high-protein, and fiber-rich, these mini pizzas are perfect for parties, meal prep, or guilt-free everyday snacking.
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Prep Time 11 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Appetiser, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 pieces

Equipment

  • 1 baking tray (10x15 inches or larger)
  • Baking parchment
  • Sharp Knife
  • Small spoon

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    A properly preheated oven ensures that the zucchini cooks evenly and that the cheese melts quickly without overcooking the zucchini.
    While the oven heats, prepare all your ingredients so that assembly is smooth and fast.
  • Slice the Zucchini: Wash the zucchini thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt.
    Trim off both ends, then slice the zucchini into rounds approximately ¼ inch (0.5 cm) thick.
    Uniform slices are key for even cooking, ensuring that each bite is tender yet firm enough to hold the toppings.
  • Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a baking tray, at least 10x15 inches in size, with baking parchment.
    The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
    Arrange the zucchini slices on the tray in a single layer, leaving a small gap between each slice so the heat can circulate evenly.
  • Season the Zucchini: Lightly sprinkle each zucchini slice with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
    This step enhances the natural flavor of the zucchini and adds a subtle savory base for the toppings.
    Be careful not to over-salt, as the cheese and salami will contribute additional saltiness.
  • Add Tomato Base: Place about ¼ teaspoon of ketchup—or pizza sauce if preferred—on each zucchini round.
    Using the back of a small spoon, gently spread the sauce evenly across the surface, leaving a tiny border around the edges.
    This thin layer adds tangy flavor without overpowering the zucchini’s natural taste.
  • Sprinkle the Herbs: Lightly sprinkle approximately 1 teaspoon of dried oregano across the tray.
    Oregano adds a classic Italian flavor that complements both the tomato and cheese.
    For variation, you may substitute with dried basil or marjoram. Spread evenly so each slice receives a subtle herb aroma.
  • Add Cheese Layer: Place a slice of cheese on top of each zucchini round.
    Make sure the slice is slightly smaller than the zucchini slice to avoid overhang.
    This ensures the cheese melts evenly, covering the tomato base while keeping the zucchini edges visible for a visually appealing bite.
    Mozzarella or Gouda works best for a creamy melt.
  • Top with Salami: Add a thin slice of salami or mini pepperoni on top of the cheese.
    Press lightly so it adheres but does not sink into the cheese.
    This adds a rich, savory layer that balances the freshness of the zucchini and the tang of the tomato base.
  • Bake Until Melty and Tender: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 4 minutes.
    Oven times may vary depending on thickness of zucchini slices and oven type.
    Keep a close eye—cheese should be melted and slightly bubbling, and zucchini tender but not mushy.
    For a lightly browned finish, you can broil for an additional 1–2 minutes if desired.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Remove the tray from the oven using oven mitts.
    Let the zucchini pizza bites cool for a minute or two before transferring to a serving plate.
    They can be enjoyed warm, which enhances the melted cheese texture, or served cold as a convenient snack.
    Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a quick, satisfying bite anytime.
  • Tips for Customization (Optional): Feel free to experiment with different toppings—mini bell peppers, olives, or cherry tomatoes add color and flavor.
    Cheese choices can vary from cheddar to provolone, and you can swap salami with turkey pepperoni or even a vegetarian alternative.
    Adjust spices according to taste, and for added crunch, sprinkle a few crushed nuts or seeds before baking.

Notes

  • Use firm, fresh zucchini for best texture; avoid overly watery or soft zucchini.
  • Slice zucchini evenly (¼ inch thick) to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind the cheese and salami add natural saltiness.
  • Ketchup works well as a simple tomato base, but pizza sauce or marinara are excellent alternatives.
  • Cheese slices should be slightly smaller than the zucchini rounds to prevent overflow.
  • Baking time may vary depending on zucchini thickness and oven; watch closely to avoid overcooking.
  • These bites can be enjoyed warm for melty cheese or cold as a convenient snack.